AQA GCSE Computer Science 8525
10 |
What students will learn |
How it builds on learning |
Data Representation
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Sets up the foundation for understanding how computers work and the basis for all logic and constraints for designing storage, and programming computers. |
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Storage
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Uses the knowledge about data representation to understand how data is stored for long term use, the mediums that can be used, and how they are used. |
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Memory, the CPU, and Programming Languages
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Further extended knowledge on data and storage, extends knowledge to the understanding of computer memory, and how data and instructions form processes carried out by computers. |
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Logic
· Boolean logic · Logic gates and circuits |
Brings together the knowledge of binary representation and Boolean logic to lead into computational thinking. |
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Python Programming
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The Python programming language is revisited (having learnt its basics in Years 7 and 9) and extended to incorporate a fuller understanding of algorithmic solutions, data structures, and structured programming. |
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Networks and Cyber Security
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Networks, their benefits, and security issues are introduced. |
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11 |
What students will learn |
How it builds on learning |
Databases
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Relational databases are introduced, and the SQL language is learnt, drawing on understanding of data types and structures from algorithms and Python programming. |
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Further Python Programming
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Algorithms
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Following on from the knowledge of logic circuits, and work done throughout KS3, algorithms are examined, and the basis of computational thinking is reinforced and extended. |
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Software
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Different types of software are introduced, drawing on knowledge of the workings of a computer system. |
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Legal, Ethical, and Environmental Issues
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The legal, ethical, and environmental issues surrounding computer and data usage are explored, drawing on knowledge of the workings and issues surrounding computer systems and networks. |
Pupils sit three formal, written assessments:
November – Formal Assessment 1 (autumn term’s curriculum content)
February – Formal Assessment 2 (autumn term’s and first spring half term’s curriculum content)
July – Year 10 Mock (Year 10 curriculum content)
Pupils sit two formal, written assessments:
November/December – Year 11 Mock (Past paper containing curriculum content covered)
February – Year 11 Mock (all course material)
The most meaningful thing you can do to support your child in Computer Science is simply to take an interest and ask them to show you what they have been doing in lessons. We will teach everything in class and ensure suitable support is in place for those who may be struggling.
No additional equipment is required for Computer Science lessons.
Extended learning
Homework is usually set weekly. Some homework tasks consolidate and practise work done within lessons, others prepare pupils for the content of subsequent lessons.
For those keen to go beyond the classroom and do more in the Computing department we run several clubs at lunchtime and after school, including programming and revision of GCSE topics.
All required programming skills will be taught in lessons, but for those wanting to go further we suggest the following ‘teach yourself’ websites:
Codecademy – free and paid courses covering a wide range of languages.
Khan Academy – free introductory and advanced courses for a wide range of languages.
Code.org – free courses and activities exploring computing concepts.
The CraigNDave YouTube channel is a good resource for all aspects of the course.
Pupils have the opportunity to visit Bletchley Park in Milton Keynes to explore computational history and attend specialised lessons from specialists from Bletchley Park.